Weddington ends 60-year relationship with Providence Volunteer Fire Department

Tuesday night, Weddington Town Hall was not only packed with people, but also with emotions. There wasn’t enough standing room as residents crammed into — and outside — the chambers.

Mayor Bill Deter called a special meeting to vote to end a 60-year relationship with the Providence Volunteer Fire Department.

But the town will not be without fire service. Another vote followed securing a contract with neighboring Wesley Chapel’s VFD.

Deter said it’s the fiscally responsible thing to do because of Providence’s financial issues.

“Like most political issues. It’s the people against something that tend to come out,” Deter said.

But residents are worried the quality of service will go down, causing their insurance rates to go up. Providence has the highest rating in Union County and one of the best in the state.

“Staffing levels are going to decrease, so in effect services will decrease,” Chief Kenny Schott said.

Davie Summey with the North Carolina Department of Insurance told WBTV a rate increase could happen because there will be a significant change to fire services in Weddington.

“It's possible. There’s no guarantee that the insurance rates won't go up,” Summey said.

Summey, along with another state insurance inspector, came Tuesday night o address the council but couldn’t since the mayor said it wasn't a public forum.

WBTV has obtained letters sent from the state informing Deter of the possibility but he has continuously said residents should not worry about their rates going up.

Despite the vote, the Providence department isn’t packing up just yet, considering taking legal action against the town.

“The citizens are going to come together, they've spoken up, they don't want it,” Schott said.

Providence’s initial contract states the town must pay them $750,000 if its contract is terminated without cause. Deter says their financial problems are enough cause.

No word yet on when Wesley Chapel will take over but it could be as soon as this summer.

This story was originally published April 29, 2015 at 2:27 PM with the headline "Weddington ends 60-year relationship with Providence Volunteer Fire Department."